an irrevocable step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an irrevocable step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision or action that cannot be undone or reversed, often in contexts involving significant commitments or changes. Example: "Deciding to move to another country was an irrevocable step in her life, one that would change everything."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Asked about Rifan's allegations, Bishop said that, "they call into question the integrity of the sentencing process," while adding the claim "underlines why we continue to request Indonesia to allow the judicial commission to finalize its review… An execution is an irrevocable step and I believe that these hearings and these appeal processes should be concluded before any decision is taken".

Vice

Besides, selling it was an irrevocable step.

The New York Times

But deleting the entries of the dead feels wrong, an irrevocable step toward forgetting them entirely, almost akin to killing them a second time.

The New York Times - Magazine

I don't think Greece can leave the euro — since joining was presented as an "irrevocable" step at its creation — without the whole system collapsing through inevitable contagion.

The New York Times

The proposed pact represents a necessary if tardy admission: that the euro was an irrevocable step toward the political and particularly fiscal integration that alone can sustain the currency.

The New York Times

The latest volatility and vulnerability in European markets may well mark the end of Mrs. Merkel's efforts to straddle the fence between shielding Greece from default and avoiding an irrevocable step toward deeper economic and fiscal union between the euro zone countries.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Here, teenagers' impulsive tendencies have the worst outcomes: in a fit of misery or fury, some kids with the tools at their disposal--a gun, a cliff, a bridge--take a devastating, irrevocable step.

Huffington Post

Apparently incensed by a report in The Daily Beast that the show was a vanity project driven by his infatuation with the nubile, if not obviously talented, group members, Mr. Redstone, chairman of the MTV parent, Viacom Inc., took the irrevocable step of leaving the Daily Beast reporter a badgering voice-mail message demanding that he give up his source.

The New York Times - Arts

Health Savings Accounts represent the final, irrevocable step in the actuarial direction.

The New Yorker

"It's near the end of the 11th hour for the NHS bill and parliament rightly expects this information before it takes the final irrevocable step to pass the legislation," Healey said.

The Guardian

Among those few whose lives do spiral down toward darkness and despair, the vast majority never take that irrevocable step.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an irrevocable step", ensure that the context clearly communicates the finality and irreversible nature of the action being described. It's best used when emphasizing the consequences of a decision that cannot be undone.

Common error

Avoid using "an irrevocable step" when the action, while significant, still allows for potential modifications or corrections. Misusing the phrase can create a false sense of finality and undermine the credibility of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an irrevocable step" functions as a noun phrase describing a particular type of action or decision. Ludwig AI indicates its usability in written English. It emphasizes the finality and unchangeable nature of the "step".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an irrevocable step" refers to a decision or action that cannot be undone, highlighting its permanence and significance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, science, and wiki contexts, indicating a generally neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the context emphasizes the finality of the action. Alternatives such as "a permanent action" or "an unchangeable decision" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance desired. Remember to avoid overstating irreversibility when the action allows for potential modification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an irreversible action

Uses a synonym for "irrevocable" but maintains the same basic meaning.

a permanent action

Focuses on the lasting nature of the action, without necessarily emphasizing its irreversibility.

an unchangeable decision

Highlights the decision aspect and its fixed nature.

a final measure

Emphasizes that this is the last action taken, implying irreversibility.

a point of no return

Uses a metaphorical expression to convey that it is impossible to go back.

a fateful decision

Highlights the significance and potential consequences of the decision, suggesting it cannot be undone.

a conclusive act

Stresses the action's role in bringing something to a definite end.

a decisive move

Focuses on the determination and impact of the action, with an implication of permanence.

an unalterable course

Suggests a direction or path that cannot be changed once set.

a settled matter

Highlights the finality and lack of further discussion or change.

FAQs

How can I use "an irrevocable step" in a sentence?

You can use "an irrevocable step" to describe a decision or action that has permanent consequences. For example, "Deciding to sell the family business was "an irrevocable step" for him".

What are some alternatives to "an irrevocable step"?

Some alternatives include "a permanent action", "an unchangeable decision", or "a final measure", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "an irrevocable step"?

It is appropriate to use "an irrevocable step" when referring to a decision or action that cannot be reversed or undone, emphasizing the finality of the situation.

Is there a difference between "an irreversible action" and "an irrevocable step"?

While "an irreversible action" and ""an irrevocable step"" are very similar, "an irrevocable step" often implies a deliberate choice or decision leading to that irreversible outcome.